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Nestled between the breathtaking Pacific Ocean and the iconic Cascade Mountains, the original Vancouver predates its Canadian namesake by 29 years, offering a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty.
You can explore the city’s rich history, which began on the Columbia River’s north shore, where the Pacific Northwest’s first indigenous inhabitants thrived. The area was originally occupied by the Chinook, Klickitat, and Cowlitz Peoples, laying the foundation for a diverse community.
Experience the best of Vancouver without the crowds of larger cities. From historic sites to vibrant waterfront areas, serene parks, and exciting breweries, this charming city has something for everyone. Get ready to uncover the top attractions and activities that make this Pacific Northwest city an excellent destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Discovering Vancouver, Washington
Located just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver, Washington, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. As you explore this vibrant city, you’ll discover that it’s an ideal base for exploring the Pacific Northwest region.
Vancouver, Washington, sits on the north bank of the Columbia River, making it a strategic location for both urban experiences and natural wonders. The city has a rich history dating back hundreds of years, with indigenous peoples inhabiting the area long before European settlers arrived.Downtown RevitalizationDowntown Vancouver has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, transforming into a vibrant area with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Unlike its Canadian namesake, Vancouver, Washington, offers a more relaxed, small-town feel while still providing access to big-city amenities.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Columbia River | Offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities |
| Downtown Vancouver | Vibrant area with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions |
| Pacific Northwest Exploration | Ideal location for exploring mountains, rivers, and forests |
You’ll find Vancouver is surprisingly walkable, with many of its main attractions concentrated in and around the downtown area. This makes it easy to explore the city’s charms without needing a car.
Explore Historic Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Step into the past at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a place where history comes alive. Established in 1825 as a fur trading post by the British Hudson’s Bay Company, this site is now part of the US National Park Service. As you explore the reconstructed fort, you’ll step back in time to the mid-1800s when this was the most important settlement in the Pacific Northwest.
The site features meticulously recreated buildings, including the Chief Factor’s House, blacksmith shop, bakehouse, and carpenter shop, all staffed by knowledgeable interpreters in period clothing. Outside the fort walls, you can visit the beautiful heritage garden, which grows heirloom varieties of plants that would have been cultivated during the fort’s heyday.
The land surrounding the fort has witnessed centuries of history, from Native American settlements to British and American occupation. For the best experience, time your visit to coincide with one of the site’s living history demonstrations, where you can witness blacksmithing, cooking, and other 19th-century skills. With its rich history spanning many years, Fort Vancouver is a national historic site that offers a unique glimpse into the region’s past, making it one of the exceptional historic site to visit in Vancouver, WA.
Stroll Through Esther Short Park
In the midst of Vancouver, Washington’s bustling downtown area lies Esther Short Park, a haven of peace and history. This beautiful urban park came about after a hotly contested land dispute with the Hudson’s Bay Company. The HBC played a very important role in establishing a trading post in Fort Vancouver. Eventually, the land was donated and became the first public park in 1853.
Esther Short Park holds the distinction of being the oldest public square in Washington State. The park’s centerpiece is the impressive 69-foot Salmon Run Bell Tower, featuring a glockenspiel diorama that emerges hourly to tell the story of the Chinook Indians. Throughout the year, the park hosts numerous community events, concerts, and festivals, including the Vancouver Brewfest and 4 Days of Aloha.
The five-acre Esther Short Park serves as the green heart of downtown Vancouver, offering a peaceful retreat with lush gardens, mature trees, and inviting walkways. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the various sculptures throughout the park, including the nearly century-old “Pioneer Mother” sculpture honoring Esther Short herself. The park’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring downtown Vancouver, with restaurants, shops, and other attractions just steps away.
Experience the Vancouver Waterfront
Experience the best of Vancouver at its revitalized waterfront, where the Columbia River meets urban amenities. The Vancouver Waterfront has transformed into one of the city’s premier destinations, offering stunning views of the river and Mount Hood beyond.
The Grant Street Pier, an architectural marvel extending 90 feet over the water, serves as the centerpiece of the waterfront area and provides the perfect spot for photos. You can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Waterfront Renaissance Trail, which stretches for miles along the Columbia River, connecting downtown Vancouver to Winter Park.
The waterfront is also a food and wine enthusiast’s paradise, with a growing collection of restaurants and tasting rooms, many featuring outdoor seating with river views. Throughout the year, the waterfront hosts various events and activities, from summer concerts to holiday celebrations, making it a vibrant part of Vancouver’s community life.
Vancouver, Washington: Best Things to Do Downtown
Downtown Vancouver, WA, is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, cultural experiences, and entertainment. Laid out in a grid with Main Street at the center, it’s an ideal place to explore on foot.
One of the best things to do in Vancouver, Washington, is discovering Downtown’s unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Main Street serves as the heart of Downtown, lined with locally-owned shops, cafes, and restaurants housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings.
- Visit the Kiggins Theatre, an art deco gem from 1936, which continues to show films and host events.
- Explore the collection of significant buildings, including the 1873 Academy Building and the Proto-Cathedral of St. James the Greater.
- Enjoy the public art, green spaces, and regular events that make Downtown a vibrant place for both residents and visitors.
Downtown Vancouver is extremely walkable, allowing you to spend a full day exploring its attractions, shopping at boutiques, and sampling local cuisine. For the best experience, plan to visit during one of its many festivals or during the First Friday Art Walk when galleries and shops stay open late.
By exploring Downtown Vancouver, you’ll experience the city‘s rich history and modern vibrancy, making it one best places to visit in the city.
Discover Vancouver’s Street Art Scene
As you explore Vancouver, you’ll discover a thriving street art scene that tells the story of the city’s history and culture. The Fourth Plain International District is a hub of cultural events and festivals, featuring over 150 locally owned businesses and an abundance of murals.
The Clark County Mural Society has been instrumental in promoting public art, commissioning new murals each year to make Vancouver a street art destination. You can download a murals map from their website to create your own self-guided tour of the city’s art scene.
Some of the most impressive murals can be found on Fourth Plain Boulevard, reflecting the diverse cultures represented in this area. The art initiative has successfully revitalized several neighborhoods, bringing color and character to previously overlooked parts of the city.
Shop at the Vancouver Farmers Market
Discover the vibrant Vancouver Farmers Market, a must-visit destination in downtown Vancouver, located on the west border of Esther Short Park. The market is open on weekends from March through October, offering a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, handcrafted goods, and unique gifts.
The Vancouver Farmers Market is Southwest Washington’s #1 visitor attraction, drawing crowds with its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings. With over 250 vendors, you’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to baked goods, flowers, and handmade crafts.
The market creates a festive atmosphere with events like live music, cooking demonstrations, and special activities throughout the season. It’s an excellent destination for a casual lunch during a day of exploring Vancouver.
- The Vancouver Farmers Market ranks as Southwest Washington’s #1 visitor attraction, drawing crowds to its location bordering Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver.
- With over 250 vendors, the market offers an impressive selection of fresh produce, artisanal foods, handcrafted goods, and unique gifts, all produced locally.
- For the best experience, arrive early in the day when the selection is most abundant and the crowds are thinner, especially during peak summer months.
During November and December, the market transitions to its Fall Market, operating on Saturdays only but still offering seasonal produce and holiday gifts.
Visit Officers Row and Historic Homes
Officers Row, located within Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, offers a unique glimpse into the past. As you wander through this 21-acre historic district, you’ll be surrounded by 22 meticulously preserved Victorian homes built in the late 19th century for U.S. Army officers stationed at the fort.
These elegant mansions, now listed on the National Historic Register, provide a fascinating look at Vancouver’s military history and the architectural styles of the era. The General George C. Marshall House, built in 1886, is a standout residence that served as the dwelling for the commanding officer of the Department of the Columbia.
Guided tours of select homes offer insights into the lives of military families and the historical significance of this land to Clark County‘s development. The tree-lined boulevard creates a park-like setting, with interpretive signs detailing the history of each building and its former residents.
After exploring Officers Row, continue your historical journey at the nearby Clark County Historical Museum, housed in a 1909 Carnegie Library building. The museum showcases the county’s rich history through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
Explore Outdoor Recreation Spots
If you’re looking for adventure, Vancouver’s outdoor recreation spots are a must-visit. The city and its surroundings offer a diverse range of activities that cater to all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking Trails and Parks
Vancouver and Clark County are home to numerous hiking trails and parks that offer something for everyone. From urban trails to spectacular regional parks with waterfalls and swimming holes, the options are vast.
One of the standout destinations is Moulton Falls Regional Park, featuring two beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails through lush forest, and a historic three-story arch bridge offering spectacular views. You can also swim in the river and explore the heavily forested area, which includes volcanic formations and Indian meeting grounds.
Other notable mentions include:
- The Burnt Bridge Creek Trail, an 8-mile paved multi-use trail that follows the creek through meadows, wetlands, and forest.
- Vancouver Lake Park, which offers water recreation opportunities like kayaking, canoeing, and windsurfing, along with picnic areas and playgrounds.
- Whipple Creek Regional Park, featuring several miles of hiking trails through dense forest.
- The Salmon Creek Park and Trail system, which combines natural beauty with recreational amenities, including a 5-mile trail for walking, running, or cycling.
- For more challenging hikes with rewarding views, head to nearby Silver Star Mountain, where trails lead to panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Whether you’re interested in a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, Vancouver’s outdoor recreation spots have something to offer. With its natural beauty and variety of activities, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience Vancouver’s Craft Beer Scene
The city of Vancouver has earned the nickname “Brewcouver” due to its thriving beer culture. With over 24 breweries and taprooms, you’ll need more than one night to explore the city’s craft beer scene. Vancouver’s breweries offer a wide range of beers, from traditional ales and lagers to experimental brews using local ingredients.
Many of Vancouver’s breweries are clustered in the downtown area, making it easy to create your own walking tour between tastings. The city also hosts several beer festivals throughout the year, including the Vancouver Brewfest in Esther Short Park, showcasing the best of Washington state’s brewing talent.
For a unique experience, consider booking a spot on the Couve Cycle, a pedal-powered trolley that takes you between breweries while you enjoy the city sights. After exploring the beer scene, visit the Pearson Air Museum near Fort Vancouver to learn about the historic Pearson Field, one of the oldest continuously operating airports in the country.
Take a Day Trip to the Columbia River Gorge
Escape to the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning natural wonder that offers something for every kind of traveler. Just a short drive from Vancouver, WA, this spectacular destination is a must-visit for its breathtaking views and exciting outdoor activities.
The Columbia River Gorge is an 80-mile long canyon carved by the Columbia River, featuring dramatic cliffs, numerous waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems that change as you travel from west to east. About 25 miles on Highway 14 from Vancouver, you’ll reach Cape Horn, offering spectacular views, rocky crags, and two cascading waterfalls.
- The Columbia River Gorge offers one of the most spectacular day trips in the Pacific Northwest, with breathtaking views and numerous outdoor activities.
- The Cape Horn Trail provides some of the most stunning views in the River Gorge, with an 8-mile loop that takes you from clifftop vistas to the river’s edge.
- Beacon Rock State Park features a mile-long trail to the top of an 848-foot monolith, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Columbia River and surrounding mountains.
On your day trip, you can enjoy world-class windsurfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding, particularly around the town of Hood River. For those interested in history, the Columbia River Gorge also features several historic sites, including the Stonehenge Memorial, a full-scale replica built as a WWI memorial.
Dine at Vancouver’s Best Restaurants
When it comes to dining in Vancouver, Washington, you’ll find an array of excellent options to suit any palate. The city’s dining scene has flourished, showcasing the bounty of the Pacific Northwest and diverse international cuisines.
Main Street is the culinary heart of Vancouver, with a range of restaurants from casual eateries to upscale dining establishments. For breakfast, head to Bleu Door Bakery, known for its artisanal pastries and hearty morning fare, including their famous Saturday beignets that draw crowds from across Clark County.
The Vancouver Waterfront is another premier dining destination, offering spectacular views of the Columbia River alongside innovative menus. You can also explore the authentic global cuisines available in the International District on Fourth Plain Boulevard, reflecting the area’s diverse cultural heritage.
After dining, consider visiting the Clark County Historical Museum to learn about the region’s culinary history and its impact on Washington state’s food culture. The museum showcases how local agriculture and food traditions have evolved, providing context for the meals you’ll enjoy throughout the city.
For a truly local experience, seek out restaurants that source ingredients from Clark County farms and producers, highlighting the region’s agricultural bounty. This approach not only supports local businesses but also ensures that you’re getting the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.
Conclusion: Planning Your Vancouver, Washington Visit
Vancouver, Washington, is a city that will surprise you with its wealth of attractions and activities, from historical sites to outdoor adventures. As you plan your trip to this charming city, consider staying in the downtown Vancouver area to be within walking distance of many attractions, including Esther Short Park with its iconic bell tower and Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
The city’s rich history, cultural events, and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for visitors. With numerous events throughout the year, from summer concerts to art walks showcasing local murals, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Pacific Northwest or simply relaxing by the water, Vancouver, Washington, is a great place to visit.
The above is subject to change.
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